For the next year endevoring to recognize a friend a day.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

I enjoy the classics, but even more, epics. Early this morning I finished Dante's Inferno.

New books generally bore me. They take one simple idea and attempt to expound on it within 200 pages. So much has already been written on a wealth of subjects, and delivered with more detail and clarity than anything modern. Unless it is a review of the latest scientific discoveries, I assure you, it is not that great. As my friend David Bertch says, "If it's not ancient, it gets old fast."

A few books I was asked to read by my protestant friends over the last decade include "Radical" by David Platt, "The Shack" by William Young, "The Prayer of Jabez" by Bruce Wilkinson, "Blue Like Jazz" by Don Miller, "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. All crappy reads, or poor theology, or extreme fluff. Far from impressive and not worth your time. I am amazed how quickly Christians are taken by the latest trendy book.

Radical is not radical and Platt does not practice what he preaches nor does he say anything that should be new to a follower of Christ. The Shack is theology gone haywire and nothing short of postmodern Christianity along with Miller's BLJ. The Prayer of Jabez is just a predecessor to the Osteen Nation and your Better Life Now, again truth spinning to untruth. And you can stop the read of Warren's book after the first sentence.

Depth and creativity are lost of late from Christian publishers. As Reed Arvin says, "I thank my God that William Shakespeare did not write for a CBA (Christian Booksellers Association) publisher because that version of 'Romeo and Juliet' would have been forgotten 15 minutes after the marketing plan ran out of money."

Stop the madness and read something that is art, has depth, makes you think, and challenges your intellect.

Dante takes you to Hell and back in his first book of The Divine Comedy, "The Inferno". One of the great epics that I would recommend only behind John Milton's Paradise Lost and Homer"'s Iliad. It is brilliant, interesting and artistic.

Within the pages you'll discover art. Literature that surpasses any modern read. Within the pages you'll encounter history, more than you'll ever grab from a history text book. Within the pages you will discover mythology, more than could ever be grasped from Clash of the Titans. Within the pages you'll encounter theology, more to consider about sin, God's righteous, our wretchedness than you'll ever get from ten years of Sunday sermons.

Apart from scripture, I have learned much more about God, man, and the world from so called "secular" classics than anywhere else. As Peter Bondanella writes,

"We read the classics because they offer us different perspectives on timeless questions."

I do not separate literature about life from Christian literature. For me, it all falls within the definition of "The Books of Man". A Christian can learn as much from Dawkins and Hitchens as from Piper and MacArthur. But don't ask your pastors opinion, they will steer you far from anything that might make you ask hard questions.

Let scripture be your guide, it will keep you in balance with anything you read, watch, or listen too.

Reflect on the words of Ulysses as he encounters Virgil and the pilgrim in the ninth layer of hell,

"Consider ye the seed from which ye sprang; Ye were not made to live like unto brutes, But for pursuit of virtue and knowledge."

I encourage a read of The Inferno and I'm looking forward to Purgatory and Paradise.

Read something old. Don't get stuck or led astray in 'New Book Hell'. Today's fluff is best described from a line in Dante Inferno,

Monday, September 24, 2012

The Professional Insurance Agents National Association named Don Owens, President of Empower Insurance, as the 2012 National Company Representative of the Year. Owens accepted the award at the PIA annual awards ceremony in Baltimore, Maryland Friday afternoon. In May of 2012, Owens received the regional award for Company Representative of the Year from the Texas PIA Association. In addition, Empower MGA has won the national MGA of the year in 2008 and 2009.

"It is an honor for me and our company to receive this on a national level," said Owens. "We are an environment where excellence is expected, and to be recognized on the national level is a tribute to our staff and our efforts as we all support each other and are focused on the same goals."

In his speech to Friday he stated, "Insurance is a holy calling, as I advise many of my friends that are clergy. We counsel people, teach people, and help people in their darkest moments. They give us a little bit of money, and when the worst happens, we give them a lot! Our idnustry and what we do is to be admired."

Owens began a series of what he named "Market Chats" in 2011. He met with independent agents in large groups at Starbucks locations to talk about: market changes and trends, Empower Insurance updates, marketing and advertising, and he spent time listening to agents express their needs and concerns. He is soon to begin his next series of Market Chats.

In addition, he continued his annual, "Miles and Miles of Texas Tour". He calls this his ongoing adventure to attempt to meet and spend time with all 2,000 agents that represent Empower.

"It is unique to find a company president that is as available as Don," said Independent agent Jesse May. "He takes my calls on everything from questions about underwriting, advertising, the industry and much more"

Owens began his insurance career in 1998 with the Al Boenker Insurance Agency, an agency in the top 1% of personal lines agents in the United States. He spent ten years in marketing prior to joining the agency in the radio industry working for CBS Radio and Rodriguez Communications.

"I was fortunate to learn something few young people discover...insurance is exciting and a great way to earn a living. I have found few industries as dynamic," said Owens.

In 2004, Owens was a part of the original team that launched Empower Insurance under the guidance and ownership of Al Boenker. Empower is now one of the largest personal line MGAs in Texas.

PIA board member Tony Harper said of Owens, "He is one of the most active and available people I know. I once called him about an underwriting issue and heard a lot of noise in the background. He took my call while tucked in rocks at 13,500 feet in Colorado with 70 mph winds and a -40 wind chill. No matter what Don is doing, he is always available to me and my fellow independent agents."

Owens speaks at numerous events each year about the insurance industry and speaks on a variety of topics at Texas universities. He uses social media to interact with agents and has over 20,000 followers on Twitter. You can follow him on twitter @donowens.

When not at the office Owens says he likes to be doing outdoor activities with family and friends.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

When I think back to being a junior high kid growing up outside of Chicago, there are a few names that are centric to most events: Marc Lapitino, Heather Klopp, Steve and Mike Domark, Holly Dahlman, Ken Smith and Brian Williamson.

Without the grace of time, it would be hard to see how each of these people influenced me, but in reflection, it is clear.

Brian and I lived in an area of Wheaton known as Briarcliff. He lived just down the street from me. The memory that is clearest to me was from the day Marc passed away from a brain hemorrhage. I missed school that day, but when word arrived I went directly to Brian's house. I would have to suppose as kids, Marc's death was a new life reality to all of us.

I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Brian, Steve and Mike several months ago when I was in Chicago on business.

Brian is creative and gregarious. He is a man of faith and family. Just as when we were kids, he has an easy going fun loving spirit that make you feel welcomed instantly.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

I have always been impressed with risk takers. Men and women that put the fate of their career, and so much more, into their own hands. Randy is one of those individuals. Randy has a very successful agency in Spring, Texas.

I met Randy several years ago when we began our MGA.

He is a connected and committed person and has shown me and our company a great deal of kindness.

As is obvious to the casual observer, he is committed to his family and his faith as well. He brings this way of life into the way he does business.

In addition, he is a pilot, another thing that makes me envious and attests to his driven personality.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

In 1987 while sitting with a friend on Camp Bowie in Fort Worth Danae and her friend Stephanie pull up along side. We all decide to go to Teen West, a dance club for teens back in the 80's. Danae and I never danced together, but a few weeks later I got a phone call that she was going to be in my neighborhood, could she drop by. We went for a walk and later a double date with friends. She hated me. But on some forcing from her friend to go on another double date, she went, and I guess I was better behaved that time.

Well over half of my life has been with Danae, 25 years, and I could not be more grateful. She has a long and incredible story that makes her who she is, and you should ask her to share it with you some time. She has overcome great obstacles in life and become a strong, talented, dedicated, faithful, fun loving person.

God knew she was the perfect person for me...I assume he is just playing a cruel joke on her.

She accepted a promise ring from me the summer of '88 and an engagement ring Christmas Eve of '91 and a wedding ring in June of '93.

Danae left a career to pursue the care, education and growth of our children. She has sacrificed much for her family, though I know she would not call it that.

My greatest memories in life are with her, and my greatest hopes include her. She is a treasure.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Some people have superior organization skills, like Cliff, but then that is the sign of a great engineering mind.

I met Cliff several years ago at Wedgwood and we have been running in some of the same circles ever since. I just got back from a weekend at his farm out in East Texas where we must have shot every gun known to mankind.

Cliff knows a lot about a lot and he can enlighten you. Like only a few other people I know, he is always in motion. The guy seldom sits still for more than 5 seconds, but this makes him very efficient.

Cliff also understands the foundational words of James about what true religion. He is a father of three, two that he and his wife adopted.

Cliff must have the metabolism of a coyote because I have seen dew people climb a 14er, miles ahead of the group, chewing a granola bar, not stressing for breath, and wondering what is taking everyone else so long.

Thursday, February 09, 2012

There are a few people in your life that have profound input. David is one of those people for me.

I met David while in college at Southcliff Baptist Church and for a while, he and I, Danae, and his future wife Rachel were inseparable. We had our weddings within two weeks of each, were in each others weddings, lived less than 100 feet away in an apartment complex, and experienced a lot together.

David helped me catapult one of my greatest adventures. The May Club. When he and I were in our 20's we set out for adventure in the Sacramento Mountains in new Mexico. That tradition has continued every May for 17 years and included over 78 others.

The May Club has brought me additional friendships and experiences that have made my life very full.

David was a manager in retail for a number of years and then had the opportunity to go into full time professional ministry about 10 years ago.

Unfortunately, I have not seen David in well over two years. However Da-Bi-Da, you know where I and the others can be found every May.

Wednesday, February 08, 2012

In the time I have known Eric, 10 years, he has been a school principle, a soldier in Afghanistan, a student, a chaplin, a nurse, and is now serving full time again in the military at Fort Hood. It makes me tired just thinking about. But one thing for sure, he never stands in one place to long.

Eric is an avid outdoors man, a quality I always appreciate in a friend. He is a dedicated husband and father of two fine young men.

As a professional minister he is unique. Down to earth, open, a realist, with the ability to fit in and blend in with whatever crowd he is with - very Pauline.

As a soldier in Afghanistan, he's also a guy that puts his actions where his mouth is. He is a defender of our way of life - Thanks Eric,

He's a fantastic person and I am proud that he runs around in some of my circles.

Monday, February 06, 2012

I met Chris when he was the Minister of Education at Wedgwood Baptist Church in Fort Worth. He is now teaching at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Chris has always had a mind for, what I consider the most important action element, Discipleship. Chris has not only been focused in this area, he has been published about it as well.

Chris is a great listener, a lost art, yet according to Boenhoffer, one of the most important ministries you can have.

I haven't seen Chris much in the past couple of years, but I am thankful for his leadership and inclusion during his time at Wedgwood. I hope those in his classes are paying close attention to his person, they can learn a great deal from him.

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

Some events in life define you and your actions for years to come. The move to Texas in my sophmoreyear was one of those defining events. It was when I felt most alone. Fortunately, there were a few people that made the move easier.

Leah was one of those people that made the change easier.

I met Leah at First Baptist Church of Crowley. She was in the youth group there and one of the folks that was very kind to the stranger in town.

Leah was also involved in journalism at Crowley high and was usually in Mitzie Johnson's room after school. I remember numerous afternoon talks which made the transition to Texas easier.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Well over 15 years ago now this young aggressive guy from New jersey comes to us looking for an internship in radio, it was Keith Nagengast. For one of his first assignments I had him take a KLTY artist to the airport and had to tell him not to curse while she was in the car. That was now a long time ago, and Keith is a very different man.

Keith took the reins at KLTY at my departure, and then took things there to a whole new level. He got married along the way and has 4, yes 4 little children.

If you had met him 15 years ago, you might think, "Jersey Shore", but today he's more like a Texan that won't let ago of his love of the Yankees.

One of the great honors in my life was when Keith asked ne to baptize him many years ago after he came to faith in Christ. It was a privilege, and it's been a greater one watching his faith grow.

Make no mistake, he still has Jersey opinion and mannerisms, but he's quite the caring and giving person.

He continues to work for Salem Communications, and has taken his "Celebrate Freedom" to other states and new heights. When he arrived at KLTY all those years ago I changed his last name to Nelson...it makes me laugh that it stuck.

Keith and Robin and their four girls are pleasure. Keith has a huge heart, don't let the look fool you.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Trevor jumps on Facebook about once a year, and never on Twitter, so he may never see this post, however, Trevor is a valued friend.

I met Trevor in the late 90's when he and his wife lived right across the street from us in south Fort Worth near Crowley. We were families with little children at the time which as many of you know makes for a busy life.

Trevor and I are both Jeep Wrangler enthusiast and we enjoy being outdoors. This made for an easy connect as we headed out camping, or boating, It wasn't long before Trevor was coming on our annual May Club trip and the adventures continued.

Trevor is an even tempered person. I know he's been angry, but I have never seen it. He is fair to everyone and is very kind and forgiving. He is a committed family man.

He, Jennifer, Sara and Emily now live way up north in Charlevoix, Michigan. It is a beautiful place that I have had the opportunity to visit on occasion, but it sure is cold.

Trevor is the kind of person that has a place for everything and puts everything in its place. Don;t stand still or he might try and store you.

He's been a great friend and I am thankful for the many adventures we've shared.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

JTTW, or "Joy to the World", as she was named by our boss Chuck Brinkman, has been a special friend over the years.

I met JTTW when we working at KLUV in Dallas. In the madness that was TK Communications and CBS Radio it was good to have a friend.

She is famous for her starting phrase, that you must draw out when saying from the bottom of your throat , "Awwwww.mannnnn!"

Over the years, as somewhat of a casual observer I have watched JTTW overcome a number of curve balls thrown in her life. She has always done things with much thought and grace.

I have been thankful that despite changes in our careers, we've stayed connected. I am always encouraged after a phone conversation with her. JTTW is now living out in Arizona and I'm sure the desert will never be the same.

I have had the great pleasure of watching her overcome life's obstacles, and grow in her faith. Miss ya, Doctor Don

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

There is one laugh you will never miss and never forget, it's the laugh of Carol Ragland.

I met Carol over 25 years ago. Her brother Gerald and I were friends, and I was very fortunate to be included in countless numbers of Ragland family get-togethers.

Carol is almost always smiling and laughing. She is energy in a room.

There are some people in life that never say anything bad of others, Carol is one of those people. Always positive, always friendly, always interested in how others are doing.

She has sung in a church choir for as long as I've known her, and it is just one more way she brings joy to others. She and her family have been a second family in my life ,of which I am eternally grateful.